Poor Man’s Gambit – Vibrant Irish-American Music With Captivating Melodies, Footwork, And Multi-Instrumental Flair

Poor Man’s Gambit brings the vibrant spirit of Irish-American music to life with their dynamic mix of fiddle, accordion, bodhrán, and dazzling dance to Godfrey Daniels!

Experience the dynamic energy and heartfelt passion of Poor Man’s Gambit, an acclaimed Irish-American trio from the Philadelphia area. With a captivating mix of fiddle, accordion, bodhrán, whistle, and dance, they skillfully weave traditional Irish melodies, provincial influences, and original compositions into a tapestry of sound that is both timeless and exhilarating. Known for their versatility and multi-instrumental flair, the trio’s performances are enriched by Corey’s dazzling footwork, adding an extra spark of excitement. Their latest album, Land of Sunshine, showcases spirited tunes and evocative songs that promise to transport audiences to a place of joy and connection. Join us for an evening that celebrates the vibrant Irish music traditions in our listening room's intimate setting.

Poor Man's Gambit

poormansgambit.com

"Great renditions of traditional tunes and recent compositions" ~ Folk World

Poor Man's Gambit was formed in 2015 and hails from the Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania, USA. The trio has released 3 albums, completed two international tours, and has been noted as an increasingly popular Irish-American group.

Featuring Fiddle, Button Accordion, Guitar, Bodhran, Whistle, Cittern, Flute, Vocals, and Dance, this trio brings together diverse musical backgrounds that complement the other's musical styles both on stage and in the studio. With two multi-instrumentalists in the line-up, PMG has been noted for their ability to change instrumentation many times over the space of a performance, and offer several levels of musical depth to listening ears. The addition of Corey's flashy footwork on the occasional reel adds an extra punch of energy for audiences already enraptured by the music. The trio's latest album 'Land of Sunshine' showcases a carefully selected offering of spirited tunes balanced with an equal number of expressively performed songs. Most of the repertoire is rooted in Irish traditions, but some pulls from other provincial influences including England, Brittany, and Scotland, in addition to several original compositions also included in the collection.

Deirdre Lockman
Fiddle and Vocals

Deirdre (fiddle, vocals) has been pursuing her passion for Irish music and dance since the age of four when she was first introduced to the fiddle. Born into a musical family, she was soon performing with her family band, in addition to numerous orchestras and ensembles including the Junior String Philharmonic, and the Lehigh University Philharmonic Orchestra. A quick study, Deirdre began competing in fiddle competitions at an early age, and holds several regional fiddle titles.

Deirdre began Irish step-dancing at the age of 5, and competed at the regional and national level with the DeNogla School of Irish Dance out of New Jersey for eleven years, before focusing her full attention on traditional music.

In addition to her work with PMG, Deirdre offers private fiddle lessons to students in the greater Philadelphia area. You can learn more through her personal site here: deirdreviolin.weebly.com

Corey Purcell
Button Accordion, Cittern, Bodhran, Vocals, and Dance

Having been introduced to Irish culture at a very young age, Corey quickly grew to love the Irish music and dance that surrounded him. Advancing rapidly through the ranks of the competitive Irish dancing scene, Corey soon found himself on the National, then World stage of competition. After competing for 14 years, and discovering that he preferred his own artistic and rhythmic approach to the strict form required by the judges, Corey transitioned from competitions to stage productions and performance. He has danced with several notable bands including the esteemed Irish group Danú.

Corey’s journey to traditional music began when he was 16, and started teaching himself tunes on the Irish style button accordion which he bought himself for his birthday. Progressing quickly, he was soon studying under 7-time All Ireland Champion John Whelan, and began honing his technique under John's tutelage. Corey found his true calling in traditional Irish music, and rapidly branched into other instruments including cittern, bodhran, and voice.

Corey's 2023 solo release ‘Undaunted’ had the distinction of debuting at #11 on the acclaimed International Folk Charts, earning him recognition in the wider world of folk than his traditional roots would have led many to anticipate.

You can learn more about Corey at his personal site - coreypurcellmusic.com